If you want to catch scenic views while playing with your pup, Madison Basham suggests the off-leash areas at Point Defiance Park. “Point Defiance has a great off-leash area and a separate, fully fenced small dog area,” Madison says. “[It’s] great to enjoy the views from Point Defiance while the pups get some playtime, and you get to enjoy [the] 5-mile drive on your way in and out!”

For a great workout for both you and your pooch, stop by Sheryll Tan and Jessica Payne’s pick: “McCormick Forest Park in Gig Harbor has beautiful, well-kept trails and a designated off leash dog area,” Jessica shares.

Sheryll adds: “An area is fenced in but there's a huge space with several trails and a large dirt space for throwing balls. Circled by a fence, you don't have to worry when your furry member of the family explores to his heart's content. It's about a 5-minute walk from your parking at the firehouse. You also get a good walk in so not only [does] your dog get some exercise, [but you do] as well.” Grab Fido and your walking shoes!

Dogs big and small will love exploring Lindsay Emery’s top choice: “Ft. Steilacoom [Dog Park] is wonderful,” says Lindsay. “It's huge (22 acres) and has separate areas for small/timid dogs and larger more athletic dogs. Apart from the beautiful natural landscaping, there are also water fountains throughout which is a simple luxury with [the] heat we've been having!” Open since 2006, it is the perfect puppy playground.

For a park that has something for everyone, check out Chambers Bay Off-Leash Park & Beach. “Chambers Bay just added a new section to their fenced-in, off-leash park, catering to small, shy or senior canines,” shares Carrie Hall. “Your pup gets to play while you enjoy the spectacular views of the Sound. They offer water bowls, keep the poop bags stocked and there are plenty of ‘human’ restrooms too. Woof!”

If your pooch loves the water, you will definitely want to check out Erin Farquhar’s pick: “Fox Island Sand Spit—also known as Bella Bella Beach—is a must for anyone with a water dog,” says Erin. “The sand spit itself is considered a nature preserve but an area south of the spit is designated as off-leash. [The] best time to visit is during low tide when the pups have lots of room to run on the sandy beach; [there’s] no need to worry about barnacles hurting their little paws.”

Julie Hammon agrees with Erin’s choice, noting “My pups love it. [It’s] also great for kayaking into if you’re out on the water with the pups and they need some land time or you need a break. Not many people know about this off-leash park so it's not usually that crowded.” With picnic benches, bird-watching, and more, this is the perfect spot for dogs and owners alike!

Unfortunately, this particular dog park earns its title from a tragedy that occurred back in November of 1940. “[Tubby’s Trail Dog] Park is named after the dog who died when the original [Narrows] Bridge fell into the water,” shares Julie. Despite this sad event, the park itself remains a popular place for owners to take their pups. “There's tons of parking and it has a little dog side and a big dog side,” Julie says. “It is fully fenced so you don't have to worry about pups getting out, and the big dog side (which any dog can go in) has some wooded area[s] for trail runs. [It is] also tucked away so you have a great regular crowd that goes but [it is]... not that crowded. [The] big dog side is quite large so there [is] plenty of running room for the pups.” Let your pal run up and down the grassy slopes and enjoy the great outdoors at this special park!